Top Things To Do in Waco, Texas for a Family Vacation
Are you looking for things to do in Waco? I couldn’t wait to visit this small town in Central Texas, and yes, it’s totally thanks to Chip & Joanna Gaines. While my husband said he would have gone, I figured it was the perfect trip with my best friends. I don’t think any guy would have enjoyed going to Magnolia Market a few times…let alone the 6 times Gina and I did over our 36 hours in the area.
We had a great time, and a long weekend was the perfect amount of time to experience everything Waco had to offer.
How To Get To Waco
There are multiple airports within a few hours of Waco, which makes the city of Waco a great option for a few day vacation or a day trip from a nearby city. We landed on Friday night, got in our rental car, and made the 1.5-hour drive down to Waco from Dallas. It was a quick and easy drive, though a bit scary because the highway went through long stretches of nothing and there were no street lights. Thankfully, we had the music blaring and constant conversation, and there was no time to think about the possible scary movie situation that could occur. JK, I love Texas and would take those open fields any day.
Fun fact: Waco is next to a town called “Heart of Texas” which is just about the sweetest nod to southern hospitality I’ve ever heard. As the closest town to the exact center of the state, it’s a very fitting name.
Fly into Waco to the small regional airport in Waco. This would work if you are somewhat local to Texas.
Fly into Dallas, 1.5 hours from Waco
- Book a rental car (my recommendation!)
- Book a day trip bus tour
- Take a tram and bus which will take around 3 hours
Fly into Austin, 1.5 hours from Waco
- Book a rental car
- Book a tour
- Take a greyhound bus
Fly into San Antonio or Houston, 3 hours from Waco
- Book a rental car
Where To Stay In Waco
One of the great things about Waco is the options for where to stay! If you are a Fixer Upper fan, you will be happy to know that a few of the homes from the show are now short-term rentals. You also have the option for hotels, other short-term rentals, and Magnolia-owned vacation rentals.
The Magnolia Properties
1. Hillcrest Estate is a beautiful estate fit for up to 12 guests
2. Hillcrest Cottage was the original carriage house for the estate but now can be rented separately with one bedroom and one bathroom.
3. Hotel 1928 is the first boutique hotel owned by Chip and Joanna and it looks stunning!
Short-Term Rentals
1. The Mid-Century Modern sleeps 12 in 4 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms and is a 10minute drive to Magnolia Market (featured on Fixer Upper)
2. Beautiful designer home with a instagrammable mural, room for up to 8 and only 3 minutes from Magnolia Market
3. Perfectly priced cottage within walking distance to the Cameron Park Zoo and Magnolia Market
4. Downtown condo a few blocks from Magnolia Market with space for 6
5. Bachelor Pad is great spot for groups looking to have a great time during their visit to Waco, Texas (featured on Fixer Upper)
6. Baylor area tiny house with room for 5
7. Large green home less than 5 minutes from Magnolia Market
8. The German Schmear House still looks incredible even many years later. This was one of my favorites from Fixer Upper!
9. Shotgun house was another favorite of mine! We took pictures in front of it during our trip (featured on Fixer Upper)
10. Barndamonium with space for 16, on a large piece of property (featured on Fixer Upper)
11. Stay in a treehouse near Magnolia!
Hotels
Near Magnolia
Hotel Pivovar is directly across from Magnolia Silos and is a classic hotel
AC Hotel by Marriott is only a few blocks away
Hotel Herringbone is a beautiful boutique hotel by the silos
Near the Brazos River
Hotel Indigo is near the river and less than 10 minutes from Baylor
Springhill Suites is great for a working-vacation or visiting Baylor
Hilton Waco is right on the river with beautiful views of the water and city depending on where your room is located
Top Things To Do In Waco
The Dr Pepper Museum in Waco is a must-visit for soda enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located in the heart of downtown Waco, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history of the iconic beverage.Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a vast collection of Dr. Pepper memorabilia, including vintage advertisements, bottling equipment, and rare promotional items. The museum also features interactive exhibits that provide insights into the soda’s origins and its enduring popularity.
One of the highlights of the museum is the old-fashioned soda fountain, where visitors can sample a variety of delicious Dr. Pepper concoctions, including the classic float and other unique soda flavors. Additionally, the museum offers guided tours that delve into the rich history of the beloved beverage and its cultural impact.
Lake Waco
You can rent a jet ski, boat, or other water sports for a tour around Waco lake. Rentals are available for most of the year, so even if you don’t plan to go for a swim, a great boat day is a fun way to spend a few hours of your Waco trip.
One of the must-visit attractions in Waco is the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and honoring the service of the legendary Texas Rangers. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the storied past of the Rangers, from their frontier days to the modern era, and learn about their role in shaping Texas history. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including firearms, badges, and interactive displays that bring the tales of the Rangers to life. It’s a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the iconic legacy of the Texas Rangers.
If you are visiting San Antonio during your visit, you can buy 1 ticket for both the Texas Ranger Museum and the Buckhorn Museum.
Spice Village is a must-visit shopping destination in Waco, Texas. It’s a collection of boutiques housed under one sprawling roof, offering an eclectic mix of unique items, artisan goods, and trendy clothing. Whether you’re in search of home decor, jewelry, or the latest fashion trends, Spice Village has it all. With its charming ambiance and diverse array of shops, it’s the perfect place to explore and discover one-of-a-kind treasures. Plus, the friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes the shopping experience even more enjoyable. We spent a few hours here wandering the stalls and had a great time!
The Waco Hippodrome is a historic theater and live entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Waco. It offers a unique and charming experience, featuring a mix of movies, live performances, and delicious dining options.
A bit outside of Waco you will find this charming and idyllic destination. It offers visitors a unique experience that allows them to step back in time and immerse themselves in the world of traditional craftsmanship. The village features a variety of artisan workshops, including pottery, woodworking, blacksmithing, and fiber arts, where visitors can observe skilled artisans at work and even participate in hands-on classes. In addition to the craft workshops, Homestead Craft Village also boasts a farmstead with gardens, animals, and a bakery, providing a wholesome and immersive experience of rural life. Whether you’re interested in learning about traditional crafts, indulging in freshly baked goods, or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings, Homestead Craft Village offers something special for everyone.
The Cameron Park Zoo in Waco is a wonderful destination for animal lovers and families. Situated on 52 acres of lush parkland along the banks of the Brazos River, the zoo is home to a diverse array of wild animals from around the world. Visitors can explore beautifully designed habitats that offer an up-close look at animals such as lions, giraffes, elephants, and many more. The zoo is committed to wildlife conservation and education, providing an enriching and enjoyable experience for people of all ages. With its scenic location and engaging exhibits, the Cameron Park Zoo offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about and appreciate the beauty of the animal kingdom.
Visit Baylor University Campus for a tour or a Baylor Bears football game.
Baylor University is a prominent private Christian university in Waco, Texas, and is known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus. Founded in 1845, Baylor is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. The campus features stunning architecture, spacious green areas, and modern facilities, creating an ideal setting for college students and tours.
While onsite, you can visit the Mayborn Museum Complex, which is a cultural history museum about Central Texas events and information, and the Martin Museum of Art, which offers guided and self-guided tours and experiences for field trips.
Book Waco Tours
See the Fixer Upper sights, visit Magnolia, and see the city with a great guide that gives you historic landmarks information and behind-the-scenes details. While I’m not always a fan of a guided tour, it’s a great way to spend a few hours in Waco to see more of the sights in a quick amount of time.
Do a ghost tour around the local haunts.
I’m always down for a ghost tour, and Waco has great options! You’ll see another side of the flowery town when you learn about legendary incidents from the 50’s, the red light district, and more.
A few other classic Waco tour options:
See the sunset on horseback, do a foodie tour, explore local wineries, see Waco with a scavenger hunt, or take a brewery tour.
See all of the Magnolia Locations!
Saving the most popular for last on this one. In my opinion, it’s a must-visit destination for any fan of Fixer Upper, the Gaines family, beautiful history and farmhouse style. It’s amazing to see how Chip and Joanna Gaines took a historic building and a few city blocks and turned it into a beautiful, family-friendly experience with shopping, eating, fun things for everyone (even kids of all ages, like husbands who don’t enjoy shopping!), and outdoor activities.
The Shops: Magnolia Market, Magnolia Home, Shops at the Silos (gives local businesses a place to share their craft), Little Shop on Bosque
The Outdoor Adventures: Play whiffle ball on the lawn at Katy ballpark, swing by the garden, visit the Old Church, or simply stroll the property
The Food & Drinks: Silos Baking Co, Magnolia Press, Food Trucks, Magnolia Table
Magnolia Special Events
Spring at the Silos is a beautiful time to visit, with colorful blooms and a lively atmosphere. The fragrant flowers and sunny weather create the perfect backdrop for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the charming surroundings. There are several ticketed events available to make the most of your weekend visit. This event usually occurs over two weekends in March.
Silobration is the annual birthday celebration of the silos with live music on the outdoor stage, a vendor fair, and more. The main event is free with paid experiences throughout the weekend. This event happens annually in October.
Christmas at the Silos is a charming, classic, and great place to experience around the holidays! Meet Santa at the silos, try the delicious and festive menu, and experience the beautiful decor around the town of Waco. This event starts at the end of November and lasts through December
Seasonal Events
In the summer you can visit the market on Saturday mornings 9am-12pm, in the Spring and Fall you can visit the market on Wednesday nights for the Bridge Street Farmers Market.
Spend a day (or overnight!) at Waco Surf
Waco Surf is an inland surf park located in the heart of Texas, offering an exciting and unique surfing experience. The park features a state-of-the-art wave pool that generates perfect waves for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, Waco Surf provides an exhilarating opportunity to ride the waves without having to hit the coast. With its prime location and fantastic wave technology, Waco Surf has become a popular destination for surf enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable surfing adventure in the Lone Star State.
Visit water parks in the Waco area.
Hawaiian Falls Waco is a short drive from downtown, so if you are staying near the sights, it’s an easy way to spend a morning.
Things To See in Waco
1. Waco Mammoth National Monument
2. Waco Suspension Bridge and the Waco Riverwalk
The Waco Riverwalk is a scenic gem nestled along the Brazos River, offering a delightful opportunity to soak in the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Waco. This pedestrian pathway spans several miles, providing a perfect setting for leisurely walking, a morning run or a bike ride. The pathway is beautifully landscaped, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to capture the serene beauty of the area.
The Waco Riverwalk also offers various amenities, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children, making it a wonderful destination for families and individuals alike. Throughout the year, the Riverwalk plays host to community events, festivals, and recreational activities, adding a vibrant energy to the area and making it a hub of local culture and entertainment. Visitors can also indulge in a variety of water-based activities, such as kayaking or paddle boarding, to further experience the Brazos River.
3. Mural tour. There are so many beautiful murals! I highly recommend checking out Creative Waco to see up-to-date information on which ones will be around during your visit.
While visiting Waco, don’t forget to visit some of their popular food trucks, enjoy craft beers from local breweries, and soak in everything that the heart of Waco has to offer. It’s such a fun place to spend a few days, and I hope more people consider it for a trip.
Waco has a whole that is not what I expected. The “downtown” area isn’t big, and then it goes right into neighborhoods. I expected a wider space but wasn’t disappointed; I was just surprised when it seemed average and similar to the suburbs. We looked for murals, got a drink, and laughed until our stomachs hurt.
This was exactly what I needed. A weekend with so many new memories, laughing about the memories we have made over the last 10 years and just exploring. Waco was the perfect place for this adventure, and I can’t wait to go back! But to hold me off until there, I am excited to share more.
